A Lunar New Year temple ceremony took an unexpectedly dramatic turn on 18 February 2026 when a senior temple official suddenly fell ill and vomited, with some of the illness splashing onto Lai Ching‑te, sources and viral footage confirm. The incident occurred during a public celebration at the Sacrificial Rites Martial Temple as the president participated in traditional rituals and engaged with attendees.

President Lai was attending the event in the southern city of Tainan — one of several temple visits he routinely undertakes during the Lunar New Year to offer blessings and distribute “lucky bags” to the public. Footage widely shared on social media shows the temple chairman, Lin Pei-huo, visibly unwell moments before he suddenly vomited while standing beside the president and other officials. Despite raising his hand to cover his mouth, Lin was unable to contain the episode, and droplets reached Lai’s clothing and shoulder.

The unexpected occurrence briefly halted proceedings as staff and aides rushed to assist the ailing temple official and clean the area. Video clips show a startled audience reacting to the sudden disruption, while security and medical personnel ensured the situation was managed swiftly. President Lai, a former physician, remained composed throughout and immediately checked on Lin’s condition after the incident.

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In remarks to the crowd shortly afterward, Lai addressed the incident with reassurance, noting that members of Lin’s family had recently contracted norovirus — a highly contagious stomach virus known to cause sudden vomiting and gastrointestinal distress. The president suggested that Lin may have also been infected, which could explain his sudden illness. Officials later reported that Lin’s condition had stabilised following initial care at the scene.

Lin himself later apologised for the disruption, describing his illness as unavoidable and expressing regret for any discomfort caused to attendees and to President Lai. He confirmed that close contacts in his household had been affected by norovirus in the days leading up to the event.

Organisers resumed the celebration after the brief interruption, and President Lai continued with scheduled activities, including distributing red envelopes to participants as part of the festive observances. Public reactions ranged from disbelief at the unusual moment to praise for Lai’s calm response and immediate attention to ensuring the health and safety of those involved.

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